“Aharen-san wa Hakarenai” Season 2 Episode 8, titled “It’s Christmas, Huh?”, delivers a heartwarming and comedic experience, focusing on the evolving relationship between Aharen and Raido. This episode dives into birthdays, diaries, and a touch of Christmas spirit, offering a blend of humor and genuine emotion.
Birthday Surprises and Life-Size Dolls
The episode begins with the revelation that Aharen and Raido share the same birthday. Raido discovers this through a chance encounter with Aharen’s younger sister, Ren. Determined to make Aharen’s birthday special, Raido contemplates the perfect gift. His overactive imagination, a recurring comedic element in the series, leads him to consider outlandish presents, including a life-size doll of himself.
In a surprising turn, Aharen ends up gifting Raido a life-size doll of himself as well! This shared gift idea highlights their unique connection and similar thought processes. The absurdity of the situation is played for laughs, with the episode exploring the humorous implications of owning a life-size doll of your significant other.
Diary Exchanges and Chuunibyou Vibes
The episode also delves into Raido’s past, revealing his “chuunibyou” phase – a period of teenage delusions and grandeur. This is showcased through his old journals, which are filled with fantastical and over-the-top entries. Raido, however, shows no embarrassment about his past and even shares his journals with Aharen.
Inspired by Raido’s diary, Aharen suggests they start an exchange diary. This leads to a sweet and intimate exchange between the two, with Aharen meticulously planning her outfit and hairstyle for their diary exchange date.
A Christmas Date Cut Short
As the episode progresses, the focus shifts to Christmas. Aharen and Raido make plans for a Christmas date, but unfortunately, Aharen comes down with a fever due to overexcitement. Their date is cut short, but not before Aharen manages to dress up for the occasion.. Raido ends up taking care of her, carrying her home and putting her to bed.
Meeting Mama Aharen
A significant moment in the episode is Raido’s encounter with Aharen’s mother, Ai. Raido, nervous about meeting her, tries to hide the life-size doll of Aharen in her room, hoping to avoid her mother’s attention. However, Ai is already aware of Raido and seems to approve of their relationship.
The interaction between Raido and Ai is both humorous and heartwarming, providing insight into Aharen’s family life and further solidifying Raido’s role in her life.
Sentiments and Future Promises
Despite the interrupted Christmas date, the episode concludes on a sweet note. Raido learns through the exchange diary that Aharen dreams of becoming a teacher and encourages her to pursue her ambitions, even if it means attending a university out of town. This shows Raido’s unwavering support for Aharen’s goals and their commitment to staying together, even amidst potential challenges.
Reviews and Community Reactions
Reviewers have praised the episode for its focus on Raido and Aharen’s relationship, highlighting the humor and genuine emotion that characterize the series. The life-size doll gag and the introduction of Aharen’s mother have been particularly well-received.
Fans online have also expressed their enjoyment of the episode, praising the wholesome interactions between Aharen and Raido, as well as the comedic moments stemming from Raido’s imagination and the characters’ quirky personalities. Many have also commented on the cuteness of Aharen and Raido as a couple, and they consider Raido to be one of the best anime boyfriends.
Episode Highlights
- Shared Birthday: The unexpected reveal of Aharen and Raido sharing the same birthday.
- Life-Size Dolls: The hilarious concept of Aharen and Raido gifting each other life-size dolls.
- Raido’s Chuunibyou Past: The comedic exploration of Raido’s past through his old journals.
- Meeting Aharen’s Mother: Raido’s nervous but heartwarming encounter with Aharen’s mother.
- Unwavering Support: Raido’s encouragement of Aharen’s dream to become a teacher.
“Aharen-san wa Hakarenai” Season 2 Episode 8 is a delightful blend of comedy and romance, showcasing the unique bond between Aharen and Raido and solidifying their status as one of the most endearing couples in anime.
